Widespread reports in Friday's newspapers claim Walcott is the target of Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez, and Wenger was quizzed as to whether another missed trophy chance might push the England man out the door.

"I don't understand your way of thinking. I cannot see that," Wenger said. "How should the Capital One Cup impact on the desire of the player to be part of the long-term future of the club?"

Wenger was then asked: "Do you believe Theo will be part of the long-term future of the club?" And the Arsenal boss replied: "I believe so, yes."